POLICE officers have stood down their search for a missing man after a body was found near Tollesbury Marina.

Thames Valley Police had been searching for Louie, 30, who had gone missing from Maidenhead, Berkshire, last Friday.

The force says the search for Louie has been stood down following the discovery of a man's body by Essex Police officers on Tuesday.

Louie’s family has been informed, but formal identification has not yet taken place.

Det Insp Liam Butler of Thames Valley Police said yesterday: “My thoughts remain with Louie’s family and friends at this most difficult time for them following this very sad news.

“Essex Police is carrying out inquiries into the death which is currently being treated as unexplained and are liaising with the coroner, and we are supporting them.

“We would like to thank the public for their support.”

Officers were called to concerns for a man in Tollesbury shortly after 2pm on Tuesday afternoon.

Half an hour later, firefighters from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were also called to Tollesbury Marina to support the ambulance service.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene with the police describing his death as “unexpected and under investigation”.

The investigation is now being managed by Thames Valley Police.